Parálisis periódica hipocaliémica tirotóxica

Abstract

The hypokalemic periodic paralysis associated with thyrotoxicosis (PPHT) is a rare presentation of hyperthyroidism. It12 s a disease prevalent in the asian population, however, is increasingly frequent detection of cases in other parts of the world. We present three cases in a Colombian hospital, three adult male patient in whom periodic paralysis was the mode of presentation of thyroid disease with sudden severe flaccid quadriparesia, they were diagnosed as Graves' disease, and all were managed successfully with potassium, beta blockers and control of thyroid function. The PPHT is a potentially lethal and reversible medical emergency, requiring management in the emergency department admission and occasionally intensive care unit. Should be suspected in young men with acute paralysis and hypokalemia, and thyroid function should be evaluated In all these cases, early detection and timely treatment change the history of the disease, treatment consists in the management of acute paralysis, and the stabilization of thyroid disease to prevent recurrence. ©INNN, 2012.